Gwangju delegation visits Zibo for cultural exchange

The mayor of Gwangju, South Korea, Fang Se-hwan (방세환), visited Zibo city in East China's Shandong province on Sept 9 during the 23rd China (Zibo) International Ceramics Exposition to take part in ceramic-themed cultural exchange activities.

During the expo's opening ceremony, Fang praised the scale and creative artworks of the ceramics exposition, and expressed a desire to forge stronger ties between the two cities.

Gwangju is renowned as the "Ceramic Hometown of South Korea" and has been making ceramics for over 500 years. The city holds a special place in Korean history as it was formerly a supplier of white porcelain for the royal family. Gwangju is also often referred to as the "official kiln in Korea".

The Gwangju delegation showcased 30 artworks by 25 top ceramic artists at the expo.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the founding of friendly ties between Zibo and Gwangju.

Yeon Gi-shan (연기선), general manager of Gwangju Royal Ceramics, said he admires Zibo's innovations in ceramics and expressed hope that more exchanges between the two sides will take place in the future.

The delegation also toured Zibo's ceramic companies and universities and attended a meeting celebrating the 20th anniversary of the start of sister city relations between Zibo and Gwangju.